Mercedes-Benz Prepares All-New G-Wagon For First Ever Redesign

For the first time in its almost 40-year history, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class is receiving a complete redesign, the results of which are expected to be revealed at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September. Daimler's design chief, Gordon Wagener recently stated that apart from "a small plastic lip on the C-pillar," everything on the G-Wagon will be completely new. As you can see from this spy video of the car testing in the vicinity of the Nurburgring, the iconic model's beloved boxy design will continue.

That said, expect to see some dramatic differences, such as a cleaner underbody to enhance aerodynamics, and a wide body stance as a result of four inches of added girth. In fact, on close inspection you can see that the windscreen, hood and grille are all noticeably wider than on the current model.

Mercedes aims to cut up to 440 pounds of the current model's 5,665-pound curb weight by utilizing aluminum and high-strength steel in the new G-Wagon's construction. A new suspension is one of the primary reasons for widening the G-Class, which will deliver improved stability on and off road, as is expanding the cockpit. Arguably the most outdated aspect of the G-Wagon, the interior will be comprehensively overhauled to drag into the 21st century, while it will be offered with a range of new inline six and V8 engines, including the 416-hp 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 offered in the 2016 Mercedes G550.

Mercedes-AMG will also be tasked with unleashing extreme versions of the G-Class, which account for more than 50 percent of G-Class sales across the globe. After debuting later this year, the new G-Wagon is expected to launch in 2018 as a 2019 model to coincide with its 40th anniversary.